Plug-in connection system for fluid-conducting components, in particular of fire-extinguishing systems, and component parts of said connection system

ABSTRACT

A plug-in connection system for fluid-conducting components of fire extinguishing systems that has a first component having an outer peripheral surface and a first recess in the peripheral surface, and a second component having an inner peripheral surface and a second recess in the inner peripheral surface, wherein the first and the second component can be plugged into one another such that the recesses lie opposite one another and define a locking element channel. A locking element which can be inserted into the locking element channel until an interlock position is reached and at least part of which engages in both recesses in the interlock position. A locking element safety device is provided for reversibly releasably securing the locking element on the first and/or second component.

PRIORITY CLAIM AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

This application is a 35 U.S.C. § 371 application of InternationalApplication No. PCT/EP2018/082606, filed Nov. 26, 2018, which claims thebenefit of German Application No. 10 2017 127 845.1 filed Nov. 24, 2017,each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a plug-in connection system forfluid-conducting components, in particular for fluid-conductingcomponents of fire extinguishing systems.

The invention also relates to a first and second component and to alocking element for such a plug-in connection system.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Plug-in connection systems of the kind initially specified are knownfrom GB 652,986, for example, for the purpose of interconnecting rigidpipes for the transport of liquids.

As with other components, particularly fluid-conducting componentsduring initial installation, but also later during maintenance orreplacement of defective components, it is necessary to release andreconnect the connection points between the first and second components.This requires a considerable amount of time in practice. Interlockingsystems of the kind initially specified provide assistance in thisrespect, in that, by inserting the locking element into the lockingelement channel formed between the components, an interlock safetydevice is provided that can be installed very quickly and above all thatcan also be removed in a short time. Due to the locking element in thelocking element channel engaging not only in the recess of the firstcomponent, but also in the recess of the second component, thecomponents cannot be unplugged from each other as long as the lockingelement is in the locking element channel. However, a disadvantage ofthe interlock solution known from the prior art is that the locking caninadvertently release itself on its own, for example as a result ofstrong vibrations on the components, and in extreme cases slipscompletely out of the locking element channel. If this happens, thefirst and second components may separate from each other and, in theworst case, a failure occurs in the system that includes the components.Furthermore, in systems known from the prior art, it is not possible tosee from the outside whether the locking element, in the inserted state,is sufficiently long or is too short in length. The latter may be thecase when the locking element is intended for a component with a smallernominal diameter. In that case, the connection will no longer have theprescribed hydraulic bursting strength when components are coupled andthe locking element is installed.

The object of the invention was therefore to propose a plug-inconnection system of the kind initially specified which eliminates asfar as possible the disadvantages found in the prior art. Morespecifically, the object of the invention was to specify a plug-inconnection system that holds the components in the locked state in ahighly reliable manner. The object of the invention, in any case, was tospecify an alternative plug-in connection system.

The invention achieves its object with a plug-in connection system ofthe kind initially specified, wherein the plug-in connection systemcomprises

a first component having an outer peripheral surface and a first recessin the peripheral surface,

a second component having an inner peripheral surface and a secondrecess in the inner peripheral surface, wherein the first and the secondcomponent can be plugged into one another such that when they are fullyplugged into one another the recesses lie opposite one another anddefine a locking element channel,

a locking element which, when the components are fully plugged into oneanother, can be inserted into the locking element channel until aninterlock position is reached and which engages at least partially inboth recesses in the interlock position, and

a locking element safety device for reversibly releasably securing thelocking element on the first and/or second component. The approach takenby the invention is that the locking element loses its locking functiononly if it can remove itself from the locking element channel. Providinga locking element safety device for securing the chain reversiblyreleasably to the first and second component ensures that any automaticand inadvertent release of the chain is meticulously prevented, while atthe same time the safety device can be attached within a short time.

In a preferred development of the invention, the locking element safetydevice has a retainer which is designed to prevent the locking elementfrom inadvertently leaving the locking element channel completely. Theretainer, in other words, is not provided so as to prevent any movementat all of the locking element within the locking element channel, butmerely to prevent complete removal of the locking element from the firstor second component.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the locking element safetydevice has an engagement member corresponding to the retainer andembodied at the end of the locking element. The retainer is preferablyarranged on the first or second component and can be moved back andforth between an interlock position and a release position. The retainerpreferably projects in the locking position at least so far into thelocking element channel that the engagement member of the lockingelement is prevented from sliding out of the locking element channel.

For that purpose, the retainer preferably has an obstruction body thatcan be moved towards or away from the locking element channel, such as apin, a screw or the like. The essential aspect is that the retainer isable to create a partial obstruction in the locking element channel,which the locking element, or at least the engagement member of thelocking element, is unable to pass. The engagement member is preferablyprovided in the form of a sliding body whose shape is adapted to thecross-section of the locking element channel and which has a recess forreceiving the obstruction body when in its obstruction position.

It is particularly preferred that the retainer has a spring-loadedsafety element as obstruction body, for example a spring-loaded thrustpiece or locking pin that can be screwed into the first or the secondcomponent, the safety element being positioned relative to the lockingelement channel in such a way that it can be displaced by the chainsliding through the locking element channel, but when the engagementmember of the chain reaches the retainer, it enters the locking elementchannel and comes into contact with the engagement member in order toserve as an end stop. Depending on the geometry of the engagementmember, it is possible in preferred embodiments for the chain tocontinue moving after overcoming the spring biasing force of the safetyelement. However, this still prevents the chain from being pulled outinadvertently.

In another preferred embodiment, a channel end section into which thesecond recess opens is formed in such a way in the second component thatthe channel end section is part of the locking element channel and isdimensioned for insertion and removal of the chain into and out of thelocking element channel, preferably with a clearance fit in relation tothe locking element. The retainer is preferably arranged in the regionof the channel end section in such a way that the engagement member ofthe locking element completely unblocks at least the first recess whenit is in contact with the retainer. In this embodiment, it is notnecessary to remove the locking element completely from the first orsecond component. The locking element can remain in its stop position atthe retainer, and the first and second components can nevertheless bereleased from each other.

In a preferred configuration, the channel end section is open towards anouter peripheral surface of the second component. The chain thus exitsthe plug-in connection system at the outer peripheral surface, making iteasy to access the locking element channel in order to interlock theplug-in connection system.

As an alternative or in addition to the retainer, the locking elementsafety device has a locking element interlock mechanism which isdesigned to fix the locking element reversibly releasably in theinterlock position inside the locking element channel. This results in asignificant gain in safety, as the interlock mechanism ensures that theinterlock function is always fully maintained by the locking element inthe locking element channel, as long as the locking element is fixed inthe interlock position.

The locking element interlock mechanism preferably has an interlockelement formed at one end of the locking element, preferably oppositethe engagement member of the retainer. An interlock receiver for theinterlock element is preferably arranged on the first or secondcomponent. The interlock receiver and the interlock element arepreferably shaped correspondingly to each other, and the interlockreceiver is preferably configured to fix the interlock elementreversibly releasably.

In preferred embodiments, the interlock receiver and the interlockelement are form-lockingly engagable with each other in the interlockposition. For that purpose, they have correspondingly shaped protrusionsand recesses (for form-locking engagement) or correspondingly shapedcontact or engagement surfaces (for a force-fit connection, for exampleby means of screw fastening). The interlock receiver is preferablymounted pivotably on the first or second component. It is furtherpreferred that the interlock receiver is configured to abut against thefirst or second component when it holds the interlock elementforce-lockingly and/or form-lockingly.

Alternatively or additionally, the interlock element is pivotablymounted on the locking element and is preferably configured to abutagainst the first or second component when it holds the interlockelement force-lockingly and/or form-lockingly.

It is further preferred that the interlock receiver can be connected bymeans of a screw connection with the interlock element of the lockingelement when the locking element adopts the interlock position. Theinterlock element and the interlock receiver are preferably positionedrelative to each other such that they cannot engage in each other untilthe locking element has reached its interlock position inside thelocking element channel.

In another preferred embodiment, the locking element locking mechanismhas a spring element which is operatively connected to the interlockingelement or to the interlock receiver and which is configured to exert aforce, in the interlock position, on the interlocking element or theinterlock receiver that is directed away from the first or secondcomponent. In the unlocked state, it is immediately visible tomaintenance personnel, due to the interlock element being spaced apartfrom the receiver, that the locking element safety device is stillunlocked. This reduces the risk of neglecting to lock the lockingelement safety device properly.

In preferred alternative embodiments, the spring element is attached tothe interlock receiver or the interlock element and is elasticallydeformed in such a way, by bringing the interlock element intoengagement with the interlock receiver, that a restoring force is builtup which acts in the direction of releasing the interlock element fromthe interlock receiver. This has the advantageous effect that afterunlocking, the interlocking element and the receiver are moved away fromeach other and the interlocking element is easier for the operator togrip. The interlock element preferably has one or more recessed gripsand/or protrusions for manually gripping it.

The spring element of the locking element interlock mechanism ispreferably a spring-loaded safety element, for example a spring-loadedthrust piece (ball spring) or a locking pin, or a torsion spring, inparticular a spiral spring.

In another preferred embodiment, the interlock receiver has a fittingmember which is representative of the nominal diameter of the first andsecond component, and the interlock element has a correspondingly shapedfitting member which is representative of the locking element lengththat is required for the respective nominal diameter of the first andsecond component. The fitting members are each configured so that theycan engage in each other when the locking element is in the interlockposition. This has the effect that the interlock receiver and theinterlock element can only be connected to each other if the “matching”fitting members are present and engage in each other. This reliablyprevents any undetected use of a locking element that is too short.

According to another embodiment of the invention, a correspondingpositioning element for unique alignment of the components with eachother is formed on each of the first and second components.

A recess is preferably formed on one of the two components, preferablyon a ring which can be rotated around the component, and a correspondingprotrusion is preferably provided on the front side of the other of thetwo components.

It is further preferred that the corresponding positioning elements arearranged in such a way that the first and second components are unableto adopt the fully plugged-in state until the positioning elementsengage in each other.

It is particularly preferred that one or both of the positioningelements has or have one or more insertion bevels, which make it easierfor the positioning element to engage each other.

It is further preferred that the positioning elements each have a markon their periphery, the marks on the first and second components eachbeing positioned in such a way that they are aligned with each otherwhen the components are fully plugged into one another. This provides avisual indication that the components are correctly positioned forinserting the locking element, which makes installation easier for theoperator.

The invention has been described in the foregoing with general referenceto components for fluid-conducting systems. According to the invention,these components can each be selected from the list:

pipes,

end caps, or

valves, in particular shut-off valves, fluid-conducting flow elements.

The first component in each case is defined as a “male” component,whereas the second component is the matching “female” component.According to the invention, the plug-in connection system thus has, forexample, a first pipe having a male connector section and a second pipehaving a female connector section, or a fitting having a male connectorsection and an end cap having a female connector section, or a fittinghaving a female connector section and a pipe having a male connectorsection etc., the male connector sections each having the outerperipheral surface, and the female connector sections having the innerperipheral surface.

Valves are understood to be gate valves, quick-release valves, nozzles,diffusers, sprinklers, etc., for example.

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the lockingelement is embodied as a flexible interlock chain having a plurality ofchain links which are preferably connected articulately to each other.The articulated movement is preferably realized in such a way that thechain links can pivot about a single axis. For the invention, this typeof chain provides an optimal compromise between flexibility, on the onehand, and rigidity transversely to the pivot axis, on the other hand,and with the stability this involves. As an alternative to this type ofchain, it is also possible, and proposed in preferred embodiments, thatthe locking element be provided in the form of a flexible butpressure-resistant belt, either smooth or contoured. The relevantcriteria are the ability of the locking element to follow the curvatureof the locking element channel inside the plug-in connection system, andsufficient stability transversely to the curvature of the lockingelement channel, i.e., in the longitudinal direction of the componentsto be connected and thus in the coupling/decoupling direction, in orderto fix the components form-lockingly relative to each other.

The invention has been described in the foregoing with reference to theplug-in connection system as a whole. However, the invention isexpressed not only in the system as a whole, but also in the individualsystem components.

In a further aspect, the invention relates to a first fluid-conductingcomponent for a plug-in connection system according to any of theembodiments described in the foregoing, in particular a fluid-conductingcomponent of a fire extinguishing system, comprising an outer peripheralsurface and a first recess in the peripheral surface, wherein the firstcomponent can be plugged in such a way into a second component which hasan inner peripheral surface with a second recess in said innerperipheral surface that in the fully plugged-in state the first andsecond recesses are arranged opposite one another and define a lockingelement channel, and wherein the first recess is adapted to engage, whenthe components are in the fully plugged-in state, in at least part of alocking element which can be inserted into the locking element channeluntil an interlock position is reached, wherein the first component hasat least one part of a locking element safety device for securing thelocking element reversibly releasably on the first component.

The first fluid-conducting component has the same advantages of theinvention and has the same preferred embodiments as the plug-inconnection system according to the invention, for which reason referenceis made in this regard to the descriptions above.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a second fluid-conductingcomponent for a plug-in connection system according to one of thepreferred embodiments described in the foregoing, in particular afluid-conducting component of a fire extinguishing system, comprising aninner peripheral surface and a second recess in the peripheral surface,wherein the second component the second component can be plugged in sucha way onto a first component which has an outer peripheral surface witha first recess in said outer peripheral surface that in the fullyplugged-in state the first and second recesses are arranged opposite oneanother and define a locking element channel, and wherein the secondrecess is adapted to engage, when the components are in the fullyplugged-in state, in at least part of a locking element which can beinserted into the locking element channel until an interlock position isreached, wherein the second component has at least one part of a lockingelement safety device for securing the locking element reversiblyreleasably on the second component.

The second component also has the same advantages and preferredembodiments as the first component and the plug-in connection systemaccording to the invention, for which reason reference is made in thisregard also to the descriptions above.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a locking element for aplug-in connection system according to one of the preferred embodimentsdescribed in the foregoing, comprising a plurality of locking elementmembers articulately attached to one another, wherein the lockingelement is adapted to be inserted into a locking element channel definedby a first recess in an outer peripheral surface of a first component ofthe plug-in connection system and a second recess in an inner peripheralsurface of a second component of the plug-in connection system when thefirst and the second component are fully plugged into one another, suchthat the first and second recess are arranged opposite one another, andto engage at least partially with the first and second recess, whereinthe locking element is configured to be secured reversibly releasably tothe first and second component by means of a locking element safetydevice.

The locking element also has the same advantages and preferredembodiments as the first and second components and the plug-inconnection system according to the invention as described in theforegoing, for which reason reference is made to the descriptions above.

In another aspect, the invention proposes a plug-in connection systemfor fluid-conducting components, in particular for fluid-conductingcomponents of fire extinguishing systems, comprising two componentswhich can be plugged into one another and which define a locking elementchannel between them when in the plugged-in state, and furthercomprising a flexible locking element which is arranged in the lockingelement channel and which engages in both components in order to fixthem to each other in the axial direction,

wherein the plug-in connection system has a retainer which is designedto prevent the locking element from inadvertently leaving the lockingelement channel completely. The advantages and preferred embodimentsdescribed above are simultaneously advantages and preferred embodimentsof the plug-in connection system according to this aspect.

In another aspect, the invention proposes a plug-in connection systemfor fluid-conducting components, in particular for fluid-conductingcomponents of fire extinguishing systems, comprising two componentswhich can be plugged into one another and which define a locking elementchannel between them when in the plugged-in state, and furthercomprising a flexible locking element which is arranged in the lockingelement channel and which engages in both components in order to fixthem to each other in the axial direction, wherein the interlockmechanism has an interlock element formed on the locking element and aninterlock receiver arranged on one of the components for receiving theinterlock element, wherein the interlock mechanism further comprises aspring element which is operatively connected to the interlock elementor to the interlock receiver and which is configured to exert a force,in the interlock position, on the interlock element or the interlockreceiver that is directed away from the first or second component. Theadvantages and preferred embodiments described above are simultaneouslyadvantages and preferred embodiments of the plug-in connection systemaccording to this aspect.

In another aspect, the invention proposes a plug-in connection systemfor fluid-conducting components, in particular for fluid-conductingcomponents of fire extinguishing systems, comprising two componentswhich can be plugged into one another and which define a locking elementchannel between them when in the plugged-in state, and furthercomprising a flexible locking element which is arranged in the lockingelement channel and which engages in both components in order to fixthem to each other in the axial direction, and further comprising alocking mechanism, wherein the locking mechanism has an interlockingelement formed on the locking element and an interlock receiver arrangedon one of the components for receiving the interlocking element, whereinthe locking mechanism further comprises a fitting member which isrepresentative of the nominal diameter of the first and secondcomponent. The interlock element preferably has a corresponding fittingmember which is representative of the locking element length that isrequired for the respective nominal diameter of the first and secondcomponent. It is particularly preferred that the fitting members areeach positioned so that they can engage in one another when the lockingelement is in the interlock position. The advantages and preferredembodiments described above are simultaneously advantages and preferredembodiments of the plug-in connection system according to this aspect.

In another aspect, the invention proposes a plug-in connection systemfor fluid-conducting components, in particular for fluid-conductingcomponents of fire extinguishing systems, comprising two componentswhich can be plugged into one another and which define a locking elementchannel between them when in the plugged-in state, and furthercomprising a flexible locking element which is arranged in the lockingelement channel and which engages in both components in order to fixthem to each other in the axial direction, wherein a correspondingpositioning element for unique alignment of the components with eachother is formed on each of the first and second components, wherein thecorresponding positioning elements are arranged in such a way that thefirst and second components are unable to adopt the fully plugged-instate until the positioning elements engage in one another, and whereinone or both of the positioning elements have insertion bevels. Theadvantages and preferred embodiments described above are simultaneouslyadvantages and preferred embodiments of the plug-in connection systemaccording to this aspect.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to the use of a plug-inconnection system to couple two components, in particular to couple twofluid-conducting components of a fire extinguishing system. With thisaspect, the invention achieves the object initially specified byproposing the use of a plug-in connection system according to one of thepreferred embodiments described in the foregoing in order to achievethat purpose.

In another embodiment, the invention relates to a method of coupling twocomponents of a plug-in connection system, in particular twofluid-conducting components of a fire extinguishing system. Theinvention achieves the object initially specified in respect of themethod according to the invention by connecting the components of theplug-in connection system according to one of the preferred embodimentsdescribed in the foregoing, in particular by the method comprising thesteps of:

plugging the first component and the second component into one anotherin such a way that a locking element channel between the two componentsis defined by means of recesses arranged opposite one another,

inserting a locking element into the locking element channel until aninterlock position is reached in which the locking element engages atleast partially in both recesses, and

reversibly releasably securing the locking element on the firstcomponent and the second component.

The method is preferably developed by securing the locking element onone of the components against loss in the inserted state, in particularby an bringing an engagement member into engagement with an obstructionbody that extends at least partially into the locking element channel.

It is further preferred that the method comprises the step of reversiblyreleasably securing the locking element, in the interlock positioninside the locking element channel, to the respective other component towhich the retainer is not attached.

Reversibly releasably securing the locking element to the first andsecond component preferably also includes the step of bringingcorrespondingly shaped fitting members into engagement, which arearranged in such a way relatively to each other that a predeterminedlength of the locking element for the nominal diameter of the first andsecond component must be used in the plug-in connection system so thatthe fitting members can be brought into engagement with one another.

In another preferred embodiment, the method includes bringingcorresponding positioning elements into engagement which are formed onthe first and second component for unique alignment of the componentswith each other, so that the components are unable to adopt the fullyplugged-in state until the positioning elements engage in one another.

The preferred variants of using the method according to the invention inaccordance with the invention are at the same time preferred embodimentsof the inventive devices realizing the aforementioned aspects of theinvention. Vice versa, the preferred embodiments of the plug-inconnection system according to the aforementioned aspects aresimultaneously preferred embodiments of the use according to theinvention and of the method according to the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention shall now be described in greater detail with reference toa preferred embodiment and the attached Figures, in which

FIG. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a plug-in connectionsystem according to a preferred embodiment;

FIG. 2 shows a schematic three-dimensional detail view of the plug-inconnection system according to FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows another schematic cross-sectional view of part of theplug-in connection system according to FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIGS. 4a-e show a further schematic three-dimensional view of part ofthe plug-in connection system according to FIGS. 1 to 3, and

FIG. 5 shows a schematic partly cutaway side view of the plug-inconnection system according to FIGS. 1 to 4 e.

MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 shows a partial cross-sectional view of a plug-in connectionsystem 1 for fluid-conducting components. More specifically, theembodiment shows a first component 3 in the form of a valve body, whichis connected to a second component 5 in the form of a blowbackprevention cap. First component 3, which has a male connector section,has an outer peripheral surface 7 in the male connector section.Corresponding thereto, second component 5 has a female connector sectionwith an inner peripheral surface 9, which is pushed onto the outerperipheral surface 7 of first component 3. A ring 4 is preferablyattached rotatably as a positioning aid to first component 3, and inparticular is clipped onto it. The positioning is described in moredetail below with reference to FIG. 5.

In outer peripheral surface 7, first component 3 has a first recess 11in the form of a groove which extends at least partially along thecircumference of outer peripheral surface 7. Correspondingly thereto,the second component 5 has a second recess 13 on inner peripheralsurface 9, likewise in the form of a groove which extends at leastpartially along the circumference of inner peripheral surface 9. Thefirst and the second component 3, 5 are inserted so far into each otherthat they have reached an end position as shown in FIG. 1, which is thefully plugged-in state. In this state, first and second recesses 11, 13are arranged directly opposite each other, such that they jointly definea locking element channel 14 in which a locking element 15 is arranged.Locking element channel 14 has the same shape as the cross-sectionalprofile of locking element 15, preferably with a clearance fit inrelation to locking element 15. In the embodiment shown, the lockingelement is shown by way of example as a interlock chain.

By engaging in both the first and second recesses 11, 13, lockingelement 15 acts as a barb for each of components 3, 5 in relation to therespective other component and prevents the first and second component3, 5 from being pulled apart.

A sealing element 17 is arranged between the inner and outer peripheralsurfaces 7, 9 of first and second components 3, 5 and seals surfaces 7,9 against fluid leakage.

The locking element safety device according to the invention shall nowbe described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 2-4 e.

FIG. 2 shows a first constituent part of a locking element safety device20: The second component has a channel end section 21 where lockingelement 15 is guided out of or fed into second component 5 along lockingelement channel 14 (FIG. 1). Locking element 15 has a plurality oflocking element members 15 a which are arranged articulately in relationto each other and which can follow the curved course of locking elementchannel 14 inside locking element channel 14.

At an outer peripheral surface 22 of second component 5, channel endsection 21 opens into an opening 19 which matches the size of lockingelement 15. A retainer 23 having a spring-loaded safety element ispositioned in such a way in end section 21 that it secures lockingelement 15 against inadvertently leaving locking element channel 14(FIG. 1). The structural design can be seen from FIG. 3, in particular.

The retainer 23 positioned in channel end section 21 is positioned insuch a way that it extends in a locking position into locking elementchannel 14. At one end, locking element 15 has an engagement member 25that corresponds to retainer 23. On engagement member 25, one or morerecesses 27 are formed in which retainer 23 engages when in the lockingposition. Depending on the geometrical layout, any further movement pastretainer 23 is impossible without causing destruction. Recesses 27 areprovided in the direction of locking element 15 with sliding bevelswhich allow locking element 15 to be pushed into locking element channel14 with relatively little force, and to displace the head of retainer 23out of locking element channel 14.

Retainer 23 is a first functional element of locking element safetydevice 20. Alternatively or additionally, a second functional element ispreferably provided, namely a locking element interlock mechanism 30.

FIG. 4a shows the locking element interlock mechanism (reference sign 30in FIG. 5) by way of example. The locking element interlock mechanism isdesigned to fix locking element 15 reversibly releasably in itsinterlock position inside locking element channel 14 and for thatpurpose has an interlock element 29 arranged pivotably at one end oflocking element 15 opposite engagement member 25 for retainer 23.Interlock element 29 is configured to be brought into engagement with acorresponding interlock receiver 31 on second component 5 in order tofix locking element 15. In the present embodiment, receiver 31 is in theform of a pivoted lever, and interlock element 29 can be attachedform-lockingly with interlock receiver 31 and force-lockingly by meansof a safety screw 33 in an interlock position to second component 5.FIG. 4a shows interlock element 29 in a release position in which it isalready spaced apart from second component 5. Interlock receiver 31 ispushed away from the peripheral surface 22 of second component 5 bymeans of a spring element 35 as soon as interlock receiver 31 andinterlock element 29 are released from each other. Spring element 35 ispreferably designed as a spiral spring and is elastically deformed insuch a way when interlock element 29 and receiver 31 are attached thatthe restoring force causes interlock element 29 to be pushed off. Wheninterlock receiver 31 sticks out from the peripheral surface 22 ofsecond component 5, as shown in FIG. 4a , it can immediately be seenthat locking element 15 is either not in the interlock position, or inany case that interlock element 29 is not connected to interlockreceiver 31.

Interlock element 29 has a grip recess 37 which preferably faces awayfrom interlock receiver 31. Grip recess 37 preferably has one or moreprotrusions 39 also. The one or more protrusions 39 are designed toprovide an operate with a haptic aid when gripping interlock element 29in order to push or pull out locking element 15 in or out.

To prevent any inadvertent insertion of a wrong locking element 15, inparticular one that is too short, correspondingly designed fittingmembers 41, 43 are formed on interlock receiver 31 and interlock element29. In the present embodiment, a fitting member 41 in the form of arecess is formed on interlock receiver 31. A fitting member 43 in theform of a protrusion, for example a pin, is formed on interlock element29. Fitting member 43 slides into corresponding fitting member 41 wheninterlock receiver 31 and interlock element 29 come closer to eachother. If interlock receiver 31 and interlock element 29 can come fullyinto contact with each other and both can be brought into contact withperipheral surface 22 of second component 5, the operator automaticallyknows that he has selected the right locking element 15. If lockingelement 15 has a different length, i.e., is for a different nominaldiameter of second component 5, fitting member 43 would be providedelsewhere or with a different shape, with the result that the fittingmembers are unable then to be brought into engagement with each other.This is a reliable way of preventing a wrong locking element 15 frombeing fitted.

FIGS. 4b-e illustrate by way of example how the interlock mechanismoperates.

FIG. 4b shows second component 5 while locking element 15 (not shown) isin its interlock position, and locking element interlock mechanism 30has likewise adopted its interlocked state. In this state, bothinterlock element 29 and interlock receiver 31 are in contact with theouter peripheral surface 22 of the second component, and safety screw 33hold the interlock mechanism 30 reversibly releasably together.

If the force-locking and form-locking connection between interlockelement 29 and interlock receiver 31 is released by loosening safetyscrew 33, the state shown in FIG. 4c, d results. Interlock receiver 31is pivoted by spring element 35 away from the peripheral surface 22 ofsecond component 5 in the direction shown by arrow P1 and protrudesoutwards. Fitting members 41, 43 have slid apart. In this position, itis now possible for interlock element 29 to pivot off peripheral surface22 in the direction shown by arrow P2 (FIG. 4e ), thus resulted in thestate shown in FIG. 4e . By engaging grip recess 37 and protrusions 39,it is then easy for the operator to pull interlock element 29, andlocking element 15 with it, away from second component 5 in thedirection shown by arrow P3, thus resulting in the state shown in FIG.4a . The locking element is inserted in essentially the same way, but inreverse order.

FIG. 5, finally, shows a further aspect of assembly according to theinvention. Reference is made to FIG. 1 with regard to the partiallycutaway area on the right of FIG. 5.

To facilitate assembly of first component 3 and second component 5 toeach other, the plug-in connection system has correspondingly designedpositioning elements. This includes a first positioning element 41,which is provided as a recess on the front side of first component 3.Positioning element 41 is preferably formed on a ring 4 which can berotated around first component 3. This allows a fitter to turn thequick-release fastener at any time into a position that is easy for himto reach. It is also preferable that ring 4 is clipping onto firstcomponent 3. The second component also has a second positioning element43 in the form of a protrusion which is dimensioned to match recess 41.Insertion bevels 44 are formed on ring 4 to the sides of positioningelement 41, and insertion bevels 45 which facilitate engagement ofpositioning elements 41, 43 in each other are likewise formed onpositioning element 43 of the second component. Haptic support isprovided by means of ring 4, which makes it easier for the fitter torecognize whether components 3, 5 are fully plugged into one another sothat interlocking can be carried out.

As a visual aid, a first mark 47 is arranged on first component 3, inparticular on ring 4, and a second mark 49 is arranged on secondcomponent 5. When marks 47, 49 are aligned with each other, as in thestate shown in FIG. 5, it is visually apparent to the operator thatcomponents 3, 5 are fully plugged into one another, and locking element15 can be fitted.

LIST OF UTILIZED REFERENCE NUMBERS

-   1 Plug-in connection system-   3 First component-   4 Ring-   5 Second component-   7 Outer peripheral surface-   9 Inner peripheral surface-   11 First recess-   13 Second recess-   14 Locking element channel-   15 Locking element-   15 a Locking element member-   17 Sealing element-   19 Opening-   20 Locking element safety device-   21 Channel end portion-   23 Retainer-   25 Engagement member for retainer-   27 Recess, engagement member-   29 Interlocking element-   30 Locking element interlock mechanism-   31 Interlock receiver, locking element interlock mechanism-   33 Safety screw-   35 Spring element, locking element interlock mechanism-   37 Recessed grip-   39 Protrusion-   40, 42 Fitting elements-   41 Positioning element, first component-   43 Positioning element, second component-   44 Insertion bevel, first component-   45 Insertion bevel, second component-   47 Mark, first component-   49 Mark, second component

The invention claimed is:
 1. A plug-in connection system forfluid-conducting components of fire extinguishing systems, comprising: afirst component having an outer peripheral surface and a first recess inthe outer peripheral surface, a second component having an innerperipheral surface and a second recess in the inner peripheral surface,wherein the first and the second component can be plugged into oneanother such that when the first component and the second component arefully plugged into one another the first recess and the second recesslie opposite one another and define a locking element channel, a lockingelement which, when the components are fully plugged into one another,can be inserted into the locking element channel until an interlockposition is reached and at least part of which engages in both recessesin the interlock position, a locking element safety device forreversibly releasably securing the locking element on the first and/orsecond component, and a corresponding positioning element for uniquealignment of the first and second components with each other is formedon each of the first and second components.
 2. The plug-in connectionsystem according to claim 1, wherein the locking element safety devicehas a retainer which is designed to prevent the locking element frominadvertently leaving the locking element channel.
 3. The plug-inconnection system according to claim 2, wherein the locking elementsafety device has an engagement member corresponding to the retainer andembodied at an end of the locking element.
 4. The plug-in connectionsystem according to claim 3, wherein the retainer is arranged on thefirst or second component and can be moved back and forth between aninterlock position and a release position.
 5. The plug-in connectionsystem according to claim 4, wherein the retainer projects in theinterlock position at least so far into the locking element channel thatthe engagement member of the locking element is prevented from slidingout of the locking element channel.
 6. The plug-in connection systemaccording to claim 2, wherein a channel end section into which thesecond recess opens is formed in such a way in the second component thatthe channel end section is part of the locking element channel and isdimensioned for insertion and removal of the locking element into andout of the locking element channel.
 7. The plug-in connection systemaccording to claim 6, wherein the retainer is arranged in a region ofthe channel end section in such a way that the engagement member of thelocking element completely unblocks at least the first recess when incontact with the retainer.
 8. The plug-in connection system according toclaim 6, wherein the channel end section is open towards an outerperipheral surface of the second component.
 9. The plug-in connectionsystem according to claim 1, wherein the locking element safety devicehas a locking element interlock mechanism which is designed to fix thelocking element reversibly releasably in the interlock position insidethe locking element channel.
 10. The plug-in connection system accordingto claim 9, wherein the locking element interlock mechanism has aninterlock element formed at an end of the locking element opposite anengagement member of a retainer.
 11. The plug-in connection systemaccording to claim 10, wherein an interlock receiver for the interlockelement is arranged on the first or second component.
 12. The plug-inconnection system according to claim 11, wherein the interlock receiverand the interlock element are shaped correspondingly to each other, andthe interlock receiver is configured to fix the interlock elementreversibly releasably.
 13. The plug-in connection system according toclaim 11, wherein the locking element interlock mechanism has a springelement which is operatively connected to the interlock element or tothe interlock receiver and which is configured to exert a force, in theinterlock position, on the interlock element or the interlock receiverthat is directed away from the first or second component.
 14. Theplug-in connection system according to claim 11, wherein the interlockreceiver has a fitting member which is representative of a nominaldiameter of the first and second component, and the interlock elementhas a correspondingly shaped fitting member which is representative of alocking element length that is required for the nominal diameter of thefirst and second component, wherein the fitting members are eachpositioned so that they can engage in each other when the lockingelement is in the interlock position.
 15. The plug-in connection systemaccording to claim 1, wherein a recess is formed on a front side of oneof the first and second components and on a ring which can be rotatedaround the component, and a corresponding protrusion is provided on afront side of the other of the first and second components.
 16. Theplug-in connection system according to claim 1, wherein thecorresponding positioning elements are arranged in such a way that thefirst and second components are unable to be fully plugged into oneanother until the positioning elements engage in each other.
 17. Theplug-in connection system according to claim 1, wherein one or both ofthe positioning elements have insertion bevels.
 18. The plug-inconnection system according to claim 1, wherein the first and the secondcomponent are each selected from the list: pipes, end caps, valves orfluid-conducting flow elements.
 19. The plug-in connection systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the locking element is embodied as aninterlock chain having a plurality of chain links articulatedlyconnected to each other.
 20. A first fluid-conducting component for aplug-in connection system according to claim 1, for a fluid-conductingcomponent of a fire extinguishing system, comprising: an outerperipheral surface and a first recess in the peripheral surface, whereinthe first component can be plugged in such a way into a second componentto provide a fully plugged-in state of the first component and thesecond component, which has an inner peripheral surface with a secondrecess in said inner peripheral surface that in the fully plugged-instate the first and second recesses are arranged opposite one anotherand define a locking element channel, wherein the first recess isadapted to engage, when the components are in the fully plugged-instate, with a locking element which can be inserted into the lockingelement channel until an interlock position is reached, and wherein thefirst component has at least one part of a locking element safety devicefor securing the locking element reversibly releasably on the firstcomponent.
 21. A second fluid-conducting component for a plug-inconnection system according to claim 1, for a fluid-conducting componentof a fire extinguishing system, comprising: an inner peripheral surfaceand a second recess in the peripheral surface, wherein the secondcomponent can be plugged in such a way onto a first component to providea fully plugged-in state of the second component and the firstcomponent, which has an outer peripheral surface with a first recess insaid outer peripheral surface that in the fully plugged-in state thefirst and second recesses are arranged opposite one another and define alocking element channel, wherein the second recess is adapted to engage,when the components are in the fully plugged-in state, in at least partof a locking element which can be inserted into the locking elementchannel until an interlock position is reached, and wherein the secondcomponent has at least one part of a locking element safety device forsecuring the locking element reversibly releasably on the secondcomponent.
 22. A locking element for a plug-in connection systemaccording to claim 1, comprising: a plurality of locking element membersarticulately attached to one another, wherein the locking element isadapted to be inserted into a locking element channel defined by a firstrecess in an outer peripheral surface of a first component of theplug-in connection system and a second recess in an inner peripheralsurface of a second component of the plug-in connection system when thefirst and the second component are fully plugged into one another, suchthat the first and second recess are arranged opposite one another, andto engage at least partially with the first and second recess, andwherein the locking element is configured to be secured reversiblyreleasably to the first and second component by means of a lockingelement safety device.
 23. The locking element according to claim 22,wherein the locking element safety device has a retainer which isdesigned to prevent the locking element from inadvertently leaving thelocking element channel completely, and the locking element safetydevice has a interlock mechanism which is designed to fix the lockingelement reversibly releasably in the interlock position inside thelocking element channel, and wherein the locking element has anengagement member on a first end, which is form-lockingly engagable withthe retainer, and has an interlock element on an opposite end, which isconfigured to be fixed by means a corresponding interlock receiver onthe second component.
 24. A method of coupling two components of aplug-in connection system according to claim 1, for two fluid-conductingcomponents of a fire extinguishing system, comprising the steps of:plugging the first component and the second component into one anotherin such a way that a locking element channel between the two componentsis defined by means of recesses arranged opposite one another, insertinga locking element into the locking element channel until an interlockposition is reached in which at least part of the locking elementengages in both recesses, and reversibly releasably securing the lockingelement on the first component and the second component.
 25. A plug-inconnection system for fluid-conducting components of fire extinguishingsystems, comprising: a first component having an outer peripheralsurface and a first recess in the peripheral surface, a second componenthaving an inner peripheral surface and a second recess in the innerperipheral surface, wherein the first and the second component can beplugged into one another such that when the first component and thesecond component are fully plugged into one another the first recess andthe second recess lie opposite one another and define a locking elementchannel, a locking element which, when the components are fully pluggedinto one another, can be inserted into the locking element channel untilan interlock position is reached and at least part of which engages inboth recesses in the interlock position, and a locking element safetydevice for reversibly releasably securing the locking element on thefirst and/or second component, the locking element safety device has alocking element interlock mechanism which is designed to fix the lockingelement reversibly releasably in the interlock position inside thelocking element channel, wherein the locking element interlock mechanismhas an interlock element formed at an end of the locking element and aninterlock receiver for the interlock element is arranged on the first orsecond component.
 26. The plug-in connection system according to claim25, wherein the interlock receiver and the interlock element are shapedcorrespondingly to each other, and the interlock receiver is configuredto fix the interlock element reversibly releasably.
 27. A plug-inconnection system for fluid-conducting components of fire extinguishingsystems, comprising: a first component having an outer peripheralsurface and a first recess in the peripheral surface, a second componenthaving an inner peripheral surface and a second recess in the innerperipheral surface, wherein the first and the second component can beplugged into one another such that when the first component and thesecond component are fully plugged into one another the first recess andthe second recess lie opposite one another and define a locking elementchannel, a locking element which, when the components are fully pluggedinto one another, can be inserted into the locking element channel untilan interlock position is reached and at least part of which engages inboth recesses in the interlock position, and a locking element safetydevice for reversibly releasably securing the locking element on thefirst and/or second component, wherein the locking element comprises aninterlock chain having a plurality of chain links articulately connectedto each other.